iPhone Duo’s Under-Display Camera Faces Criticism for Poor Photo Quality
The iPhone Duo's hidden camera has been criticized for low-quality photos, although its video capabilities are better. Alternative features aim to improve usability.
The newly launched iPhone Duo’s hidden under-display front camera has faced criticism for producing subpar photo quality. While Apple claims it can capture 1080p video, reviewers describe the 4-megapixel camera’s photos as “low-res, washed out, and just not sharp at all.” Marques Brownlee remarked that the camera’s quality is “trash,” suggesting it performs poorly for selfies and video calls.
Some reviewers note that the camera is more effective for video than for photos. It offers a unique feature by disappearing from view when the phone is in use, which some users may find appealing.
Comparative Camera Features
The iPhone Duo offers an alternative 12-megapixel front-facing camera on its outer display, which provides significantly better quality for selfies. Users can also utilize the rear cameras, including a 48-megapixel Fusion Main camera, to take selfies by using the outer display as a viewfinder. This allows for 48MP selfies, giving users additional flexibility in capturing images.
Tyler Stalman, a professional photographer, noted that while the Duo’s Main camera is not as strong as that of the iPhone 18 Pro, most users may not notice significant differences in standard lighting. He stated that in low-light conditions, the 18 Pro outperforms the Duo, but he believes the differences will not be prominent for the average consumer.
New Features and Functionality
The iPhone Duo introduces several innovative features aimed at enhancing the photography experience. These include Smart Take, which automatically captures a photo when everyone is posing, and Kid Cue, which uses animated Peanuts characters on the outer display to grab children’s attention for better photo focus. Duo Preview allows those being photographed to see themselves before the picture is taken, facilitating better framing and pose coordination.
Apple has not disclosed how Smart Take determines the optimal moment for capturing a photo, particularly in challenging lighting or with moving subjects. Reviewers anticipate that the effectiveness of these features will require independent evaluation once the device is widely available.
The iPhone Duo has unique advantages beneficial for family and group photos, but it lacks some advanced features found in the iPhone 18 Pro, such as a dedicated telephoto lens and ProRAW functionalities. For users seeking high-quality professional photography, the iPhone 18 Pro remains a more suitable option.
